Animal Welfare Professionals

Some people use the term "care desert" to describe an area lacking access to vet care. Typically these care deserts are defined by (1) median income and (2) distance to vet clinics and/or access to transportation.

But are there other parameters we should consider in this definition? This isn't just an academic question. As various groups start to setup pilot projects around the country (both within and outside of the realm of AlignCare), it's important to have a clear definition of a care desert.

Aside from income and access to nearby vet clinics, are there other parameters you would consider when assessing the need for access?

With your parameters in mind, could you point to any existing data to help visualize and identify areas that meet your criteria (this isn't "necessary," of course, but if you know of anything...)

Thanks for your thoughts!!

Lack of awareness of benefits of preventative vet care,  benefits(as well as risks especially for elderly or very young kittens) of vaccines, benefits of screening and catching problems early when they might be easily helped with diet changes or medications.   I am sure these issues are affected by expense concerns as well, but increased knowledge might help.

There was a time when people went to doctor and just did what they were told,  now quality medical care encourages engagement and questions.  More engagement with the vet (asking about risks, benefits, potential outcomes and any other existing medical issues would help.  

To put this in context,  I  have adopted and fostered many senior/geriatric dogs and cats, and as difficult as it might be,  the above questions help me determine the best care  and quality of life for these animals.  I also expect full informed involvement in my own medical  care.

I would make transportation a parameter and use public transport routes to visualize the access.  In areas with no public transport, I would use roadways, including quality of the road (paved or not) and possibly access to both mechanics and used and/or new vehicles.

Lack of access to education on these specific things (why vaccinations are important, how it doesn't "hurt your dog's feelings" to remove his testicles, etc). I have no idea how you would track it, but I feel like that goes hand in hand with the "it's just the culture" rural areas.